Frequently Asked Questions

How do I call for an ambulance in a non-emergency?
You can call the Central Ambulance Communication Centre at 673-1117. In an Emergency, ALWAYS dial 911.

What area of coverage is the Sudbury Emergency Medical Services responsible for?
Greater Sudbury Emergency Medical Services is responsible for seamless coverage of approximately 5,500 sq. kilometers which includes the City's 3,627 sq. kilometers.

How long does it take for an ambulance to respond to a call?
Ambulances are dispatched from the Central Ambulance Communication Centre of the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care. Response time will vary depending on:

Type and number of calls

Location of call

Emergency resources available at the time of the call

What is the fee for the use of an ambulance?
The fee for use of an ambulance is $240.00. Patients are responsible for paying $45.00 of the cost while OHIP covers the remaining portion. For more information, visit the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care site at www.health.gov.on.ca.

Who does the billing for ambulance services?
Hospitals are responsible for the billing and collection of fees for ambulance services. For further details, contact the Ministry of Health - OHIP at 675-4010.

Why is there sometimes more than one ambulance sent to an emergency situation?
Greater Sudbury utilizes transport and non-transport EMS response vehicles along with two levels of Paramedics. The Central Ambulance Communications Centre may dispatch two vehicles to address the following issues:

An advanced level of medical care may be needed. The Central Ambulance Communication Centre may decide that more than one vehicle be sent due to the information received during time of the call taking

Why do ambulances sometimes turn off their lights and sirens when I just pulled over to let them pass?
Lights and sirens are used for high priority emergency calls. Emergency warning systems are deactivated if the call priority has been downgraded or the call has been cancelled.

Why do I see ambulances parked in parking lots or driving around the city?
Greater Sudbury EMS has developed and implemented a System Status Plan that utilizes a dynamic deployment strategy to provide a balanced approach aimed at reducing emergency response times. EMS vehicles are moved around to balance coverage and cover off vehicles that are servicing calls. The deployment strategy may place paramedics at a fixed location or require them to roam in a pre-determined area.

How do I become a paramedic?
Paramedic programs are offered at many colleges in Ontario including Sudbury's Cambrian College, Collège Boréal, and CTS Canadian Career College.
After graduating from an accredited college course, paramedics must pass a provincial examination to receive certification. Paramedics must participate in Continuing Medical Education (CME) on a yearly basis.
Further enquiries should be directed to Aaron Archibald, Deputy Chief of Operations at 674-4455 ext. 2741.

How do I register a question or comment about the ambulance service?
Questions or comments can be directed to Joseph Nicholls, Deputy Chief of Emergency Services at 674-4455 ext. 2740.